Conditions That May Look Like Toenail Fungus
Several health conditions can affect the appearance of your toenails and may be mistaken for toenail fungus.
Psoriasis Psoriasis can cause red, scaly patches on the skin. More than half of people with skin psoriasis also have it on their nails. Toenails and fingernails affected by psoriasis may be thick, discolored, crumbly, or loose. Some people will have nail changes with psoriasis, and if it affects the matrix , then these changes are permanent, says Sheth.
Skin Cancer A discolored spot underneath a toenail may be a sign of melanoma, a potentially fatal form of skin cancer. Melanoma under a toenail usually looks like a brown or black streak or may appear similar to a bruise. Although this isnt common, its also not rare, says Sheth. Her advice: Its always good to check it out.
Darier Disease This genetic disorder typically causes yellowish, wartlike blemishes on the body. However, some people with Darier disease also have fingernail or toenail irregularities, such as nails that are marked with red and white streaks, according to Genetics Home Reference. Sheth notes, however, that shes never had a biopsy come back with a diagnosis of Darier disease.
Top 3 Reasons To Treat Nail Fungus
Cosmetic Concerns
One of the most common reasons patients want to treat their nail fungus is to improve the appearance of their nails.
This is especially true of fingernails, but even toenails can be a concern during the summer when they are more visible. Nail fungus can cause embarrassment and some sufferers stop activities, such as yoga or swimming, so that others will not see their toenails.
Pain and Mobility
If left untreated, fungal nail infections can cause pain and mobility problems. These can occur as the nails thicken when the infection progresses. It may become uncomfortable to wear closed shoes and to walk, exercise or stand. For this reason, early treatment is recommended before the infection becomes more severe or has spread to other toenails.
Recurrence and Transmission
Although nail fungus rarely causes serious health risks, the nail can become a fungal reservoir leading to recurrent fungal infections of the skin. These can cause fissures or cracks, leaving the feet more vulnerable to secondary bacterial infections. People with a weakened immune system, such as diabetes or peripheral vascular disease, may be more susceptible to both fungal infections and other secondary infections, resulting from it such as cellulitis.
Dont Miss: Is Listerine Good For Toe Fungus
How Do You Treat Toenail Fungus
Treating toenail fungus doesnt have to be a difficult process! There are several ways to ensure youre practicing good foot hygiene and preventing toenail fungus. One of these is to use an easy Fungus Eliminator that you can add to your daily supplement routine to quickly and easily get rid of the fungus causing the resulting symptoms.
PureHealth Research is one of the leading companies providing a Fungus Eliminator. The team of researchers and professionals that created this supplement includes Dr. Holly Lucille, one of the most respected naturopathic doctors in the field. This Fungus Eliminator is easy to use and full of plenty of natural, healthy compounds that keep fungus at bay. These include:
Some of these might seem easy enough to get on your own, but others arent quite as readily available. Plus, when you put them all together, the total is greater than the sum of its parts! Thus, its smart to use a powerful fungus eliminator that gives you all the anti-fungal properties at once. This one is so easy to use that youll have no reason to not keep up with the daily routine! All you have to do is take two capsules a day with a meal and a glass of water.
What does the fungus eliminator do, exactly? It helps to fight ugly and embarrassing toenail fungus and protects you from future infections. It fights off fungal spores in your environment and boosts your overall body immunity. It also lowers discomfort and prevents frustrating symptoms from getting worse.
Recommended Reading: How To Hang Patio Lights Without Nails
Is It Toenail Fungus Or Something Else
Odd-looking toenail? It may be a fungal infection, but there’s a good chance that another condition could be to blame.
If you notice an odd spot on your toenail, you might assume its a fungal infection. However, theres a good chance that its not.
Spots or discolorations on or under a toenail could be bruises resulting from trauma to the nail, blood blisters, warts, or even subungual melanoma, a type of skin cancer, says Ami Sheth, a doctor of podiatric medicine in Los Gatos, California, and a spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association.
Since nail irregularities can be caused by diseases besides these as well, its best to get it looked at, says Dr. Sheth.
Richard Goad, a doctor of podiatric medicine at Baylor Scott & White Health in Waco, Texas, concurs. Sometimes the nail will be the first place to show another underlying problem, Dr. Goad says.
So is it a fungus, a false alarm, or another condition entirely?
Top 5 Signs Your Toenail Fungus May Have Escalated To An Infection
A little case of toenail fungus is practically a rite of passage you quickly learn not to go barefoot in a locker room or shared shower area again and to always pack clean socks. But what happens when your toenail problem goes beyond a suspect smell and yellowed appearance?
At Rocky Mountain Foot and Ankle Center, with locations in Wheat Ridge, Granby, Evergreen, and Arvada, Colorado, our team of podiatrists and foot and ankle surgeons provide care for fungal toenail infections and much more. They believe in educating patients about skin and nail care so you can help avoid common problems and keep your feet healthy and strong.
Read Also: How To Cure Finger Nail Fungus Fast
Getting Rid Of Nail Fungus From Fake Acrylic Nails
Nail fungus that appear on the artificial acrylic nails may not be life-threatening. However, it may cause the fungus to spread into the natural nails, causing inflammation, itching, and pain, not to mention cosmetically unpleasant natural nail appearance. In some extreme cases, nail fungus that has been spreading into the natural nails may inhibit people from properly and comfortably using their hands or feet. Therefore, immediate treatment is essential.
Treatment Of Nail Fungal Infection At Different Stages
Treatment of onychomycosis at the first stage is crucial as the infection hasnt exacerbated yet and therefore is easier to heal. Topical treatments, such as anti-fungal creams and gels or medicated nail polish are the most commonly used at this stage. However, it is ideal to use a topically-applied medication that not only can kill the fungus, but can penetrate the nail as well.
Most topical treatments dont work because they cant penetrate the nail to get to the fungi. It is therefore recommended for sufferers to use a topical medication that can penetrate the nail and kill the fungus. A solution with 10% undecylenic acid, which can effectively get rid of the infection, and a penetrating agent , is recommended.
For moderate nail fungus infection, such topical solutions can still work. However, many sufferers use that in conjunction with oral medicines. Many anti-fungal pills in the market can treat fungal nail infection, though it is still suggested to use such medicines along with topical solutions .
Unfortunately, oral medicines are also more likely to cause side effects to patients. They are also not recommended for the elderly, pregnant women, and those who have other medical conditions or ailments.
But again, fungi can come back, even without the nail itself. This is why its recommended for patients to use topical anti-fungal ointment to the nail bed and surrounding skin while waiting for the nail to grow back. Otherwise, the fungi will just return.
Read Also: How Do You Remove Dip Nails
What Is Toenail Fungus
A toenail fungal infection is a common fungal infection that can cause nails to become brittle or change color.
These infections can affect anyone but older adults and people with diabetes, athletes foot, psoriasis, peripheral artery disease, and other conditions are at higher risk for developing the infection.
Laser Therapy And Ozone Therapy
A fungal infection on the nail can be treated with hardware procedures. For these purposes, laser and ozone therapy are used. They are prescribed at an early and advanced stage of the development of the pathology, if traditional methods of treatment do not bring the desired results.
Laser therapy in the fight against nail fungus has many advantages:
Also Check: How To Apply Opi Nail Lacquer
There Is A Wide Range Of Options With Varying Success Rates
Other than keeping your toenails trimmed and perhaps painted, you may not pay much attention to them unless a problem develops. Healthy toenails are pink, shiny and smooth, but a fungal infection can cause them to become discolored, thick, brittle and even painful.
Toenail fungal infection, known as onychomycosis, is a common but challenging condition toenail fungus treatments include a wide range of options with varying success rates.
Causes of toenail fungus
Fungal nail infections are usually caused by fungi called dermatophytes that infect the skin beneath the nail yeast is another common culprit. Toenails are especially vulnerable to infection when your bare feet contact damp surfaces such as showers, swimming pools and locker rooms. If you have athletes foot, the infection can spread to the nails.
Wearing closed shoes such as athletic shoes for extended periods also can contribute to infection if your shoes and/or socks are damp from perspiration or heat. Moreover, if your shoes fit snugly enough to put pressure on your toes, they can damage the nail bed, making it more susceptible to infection.
People with chronic diseases, such as diabetes or circulatory problems, also may be more prone to toenail infections.
Symptoms of toenail fungus
Toenail fungus symptoms can develop slowly over time and may go unnoticed at first. Symptoms can include:
Toenail fungus treatments
When to see a doctor for toenail fungus
Preventing toenail fungus
Toenail Fungus Symptoms And Risk Factors
Toenail fungus symptoms are not pretty. At first, you may notice small white spots and possibly a foul smell. As the condition worsens, your nail gets thicker, which makes it harder to trim or cut, and turns yellow or brown. Nail fungus can spread from nail to nail and, eventually, make your nails split and crumble.
In addition to older people, people with certain conditions like diabetes or psoriasis are at higher risk for developing fungus. Other risk factors include having a history of athletes foot, which is an infection between your toes, a propensity for sweaty feet, and those with a weakened immune system.
Also Check: How Much Is Nail Tech School
Diagnosing And Treating Toenail Changes
If you notice changes in the appearance of your toenails, see a doctor promptly. If a fungal infection is suspected, a sample of the nail can be taken and analyzed by a lab to make a diagnosis. If the test comes back positive, an oral or topical antifungal medication may be prescribed to treat the fungus. Most antifungal medications are effective against most forms of toenail fungus, although treatment can take some time, in part because its hard to deliver any type of medication through the nail plate to the skin under the nail.
Most of the time, the treatment requires the whole nail to grow out, which can take up to a year, says Sheth. Treatment needs to be consistent and long-term if it has any chance of working.
If the test comes back negative for fungus, your doctor may begin investigating other causes for the abnormal appearance of your toenails. Sometimes symptoms involving other parts of the body help point to a diagnosis.
People with yellow nail syndrome, for example, may experience leg swelling or breathing problems. Those with alopecia could see their hair begin to fall out.
And, according to Goad, With psoriasis, patches of red, scaly skin may be seen on the knees, elbows, and face, too. Its usually not limited to just the toenails.
Additional reporting by Susan Jara
The Initial Causes What Does Toenail Fungus Look Like In The Early Stages What Does Toenail Fungus Survive In Shoes
If you suspect that your nails are infected with fungus, it is best to consult your doctor and get a diagnosis. Your doctor will ask you about the symptoms and conduct a thorough examination of your nails. A biopsy is required to determine the cause of the infection. Various types of fungus are found in the skin, including the toenails. Among the most common forms of nail fungus are yellow and black, with white patches surrounded by dark brown or white spots.
The infection is caused by fungus. It can spread to the skin and other parts of the body. It is very common to find a nail fungus on the foot in elderly people, and it is often not treated until the condition gets worse. The disease can even be spread to the skin. The afflicted person should see a doctor immediately if they notice any changes in the color of his or her nails.
Nail fungus can occur in the toenails. The infection occurs due to a variety of factors, including excessive moisture, soaking your hands in water, and a lack of hygiene. If the afflicted person is prone to infection, the fungus will grow in the toenails and may spread to other parts of the body. Consequently, it is essential to prevent the nail fungus from spreading to the skin
> > > This Unusual Morning Habit Helps Me Keep My Fungus In Check .
Don’t Miss: Dashing Diva Nails Sally’s
How To Get Fungus Off Toenail
cleans up all devices in between clients. Even if all of the proper precautions are drawn from a cleaning perspective, germs, infections, fungi these things are all over. home remedies for toenail fungus. white toenail fungus. Miest states do not shave 24 hours ahead of time and don’t have your cuticles cut. Ask that they just either leave your cuticles alone or carefully push them back.
How Do You Get A Fungal Nail Infection
Most fungal nail infections occur as a result of the fungi that cause athlete’s foot infecting the nails.
These fungi often live harmlessly on your skin, but they can sometimes multiply and lead to infections. The fungi prefer warm, dark and moist places like the feet.
You’re more likely to get a fungal nail infection if you:
- don’t keep your feet clean and dry
- wear shoes that cause your feet to get hot and sweaty
- walk around barefoot in places where fungal infections can spread easily, such as communal showers, locker rooms and gyms
- have damaged your nails
- have a weakened immune system
- have certain other health conditions, such as diabetes, psoriasis or peripheral arterial disease
Fungal nail infections can be spread to other people, so you should take steps to avoid this if you have an infection.
You May Like: Who Makes The Best Nail Clippers
Recognize Nail Fungus In The Early Stages
An infection should be treated early as soon as the first symptoms of nail fungus can be recognized.
If you are not sure whether it is nail fungus, you should consult a doctor. When treating nail fungus, you shouldnt lose any time, as it is very tedious.
A healthy fingernail or toenail is light pink and shiny, the nails surface is smooth, and the shape is even.
The nail fungus attacks the nail and feeds on the keratin of the nail. For this reason, one of the first signs is a slight change in the color of the nail .
Most of the time, the person concerned hardly perceives any symptoms or pain.
The nail often loses its typical shine at the beginning of the infection and becomes dull.
The picture above shows the typical course of onychomycosis very well.
In the initial stage, the fungal nail infection often begins on the front or side of the nail and spreads from there towards the middle towards the nail root.
What Are The Treatments For Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is notoriously hard to cure. If OTC fungal treatments do not work, contact your doctor. Treatment will depend on how severe the infection is and the specific type of fungus causing it.
Your doctor may start by trimming your nail, removing debris from under the nail, and scaling away the dead nail layers. Then, treatment may involve the following:
Don’t Miss: How To Tell The Difference Between Nail Fungus And Psoriasis
How To Prevent Toenail Fungus
The easiest way to combat toenail fungus is to change your socks and shoes often, especially after exercising. Whenever youre in any kind of communal setting involving wet feet, like a locker room, wear flip-flops and avoid exposing your bare feet to any common surface.
Its always a good idea to wash your feet with antibacterial soap. When exercising, wear shoes that allow for proper ventilation and wear socks that are made with a breathable or wicking material.
How Are Thick Toenails Treated
Although not all cases of toenail fungus need treatment, thick toenails may be a symptom of worsening fungus.
Several methods are available to treat your toenails. You can try some home-based treatments first and then talk with your doctor about prescription-based options. Topical and oral medications are the mainstays of therapy.
Don’t Miss: How To Make Nails Grow Faster
Preparations For Topical Application
The fungus on the hands as well as the lower extremities can be eliminated with topical medications. In the early stages of the disease, it is only necessary to use drugs that have no significant effect on the patient’s body, but directly affect the lesions.
Comprehensive treatment of onychomycosis at the initial stage of development necessarily requires the use of topical drugs.
External agents should be used according to the instructions of the attending physician, as well as their instructions for use. Compliance with this rule will help increase the effectiveness of the treatment and avoid possible side effects.
According to the standard scheme, it is necessary to have a local composition for applying to nails already infected with a fungus, 1-2 times a day with a thin layer. If special varnishes are used, then they are applied no more than 1 time per week.
